LONDON – Iranian TV news presenter stabbed after receiving threats
LONDON — The recent stabbing of Iranian TV news channel presenter Pouria Zeraati in London has been linked to “heavy threats” made to the station where he works, according to a spokesman.
Zeraati, 36, was attacked outside his home in Wimbledon, south London, and is currently recovering in the hospital. Counter-terrorism officers are leading the investigation into the incident, while the Iranian regime has denied any involvement.
Iran International, a London-based station where Zeraati works, aims to provide independent coverage of events in Iran. However, the regime in Tehran has labeled it as a terrorist organization. The station’s spokesman, Adam Baillie, revealed that the Iranian regime had issued threats against its journalists.
Baillie described the station as being under “heavy threats” for the past 18 months, with the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) targeting journalists and their families. He mentioned that the IRGC uses proxies to deliver threats and intimidation tactics, making it difficult to trace their actions.
The attack on Zeraati has raised concerns about the safety of journalists in the UK, especially those reporting on Iranian affairs. The Metropolitan Police, along with specialist counter-terrorism officers, are investigating the incident, which is believed to be connected to recent threats towards UK-based Iranian journalists.
Despite the troubling nature of the attack, Zeraati is said to be recovering well. However, the motives behind the incident remain unclear, prompting calls for increased protection for journalists and activists critical of the Iranian regime.
In response to the attack, Foreign Office sanctions were imposed on members of the IRGC’s Unit 840, following previous investigations into plots to harm Iran International presenters in the UK. The incident underscores the ongoing threats faced by journalists reporting on Iran-related issues.
While no arrests have been made in connection to the attack, authorities are maintaining heightened security measures in the area and other locations in London. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by journalists and activists speaking out against oppressive regimes.
